Josh Towns has come in leaps and bounds since he stepped up from Colts to the Maitland Blacks first grade team this season.
The lanky second-rower has played a crucial role in the Blacks’ success on the paddock and their current six-match winning streak.
However, he’ll be in for a tough match when he steps onto the field in Singleton against the Bulls on Saturday.
The game has all the more meaning as Maitland tries to bring the Sarroff Gresham Shield back home.
“I’ve played footy for a long time so I’m used to physical teams,” the 19-year-old said.
“It’s (first grade) a big step up from Colts because it’s a lot quicker, a lot faster and a lot more physical. It requires a lot more effort then Colts and keeps me on my toes all game.
“I’m enjoying it more because it’s more structured as well. I’ve got a good forward pack to play with and they’re really encouraging.”
Towns also has strong representative credentials and is part of the NSW Country under-19s team.
The East Maitlander honed his football skills in the renowned rugby talent pool of St Joesph’s in Sydney.
Towns told the Mercury his ability at the set pieces has helped him break into the Blacks first grade outfit. I think they wanted me to play first grade because of my height in the line-outs,” he said.
“I’ve always had a bit of advantage since I was young because I’ve always been tall and able to jump well.”
Blacks coach Steve Scobie agrees that Towns’ ability has added some extra depth to the team this season.
“He’s very good in the line-out, especially attacking line-outs but defensively he gives a lot of options as well,” he said.
“He’s very good in the air and he’s confident with his hands. He’s the type of player that lifts his game to the level that is required.”
Towns will certainly need to lift against the Bulls this weekend.
The clash at Rugby Park is typically one of the most physical encounters of the Blacks season and Scobie expects that the Singleton boys will be “baying for blood”.
“It’s always going to be a tough game against Singleton up there,” he said.
“No matter where they are on the table, it’s always hard. Their supporters come out of the woodwork when it comes to playing against us.”
The only change to the Blacks will be Chris Lavis returning at inside centre.
In other matches Merewether Carlton play University, Nelson Bay play Southern Beaches, Lake Macquarie and Easts clash and Wanderers have the bye.